JP5061125B2 - Component measuring device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a component measuring apparatus for measuring the amount and / or property of a predetermined component in a specimen.

  Various component measuring devices are used to detect predetermined components in various specimens and measure their amounts and properties. In such a component measuring apparatus, a sample is collected in a disposable collection tool (chip), and a predetermined component in the sample collected in the collection tool is detected.

  By the way, depending on the type of specimen, there may be microorganisms and chemical substances harmful to the human body. When a part of such a sample is attached to the component measuring device, it should be treated so as not to directly touch a person other than the sample provider from the viewpoint of safety and hygiene.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a blood glucose measurement device (blood component measurement device) that measures blood glucose levels. In this blood glucose measurement device, electronic parts are used for each part, but the sealing inside the device is not ensured.

  Therefore, when cleaning, disinfection, sterilization, etc. are performed for cleaning such as removal of blood adhering to the blood glucose measurement device, cleaning liquid, disinfectant solution, sterilization gas, etc. enter the blood glucose measurement device, and blood glucose It may cause failure of the measuring device.

JP 2004-347436 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide a component measuring apparatus that can be used for cleaning, disinfection, and the like, and can be used safely and repeatedly.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides:
A component measuring device for measuring the amount and / or property of a predetermined component in a specimen,
A case including a cylindrical case body having a distal end opening, a proximal end opening, and a window, and a lid provided to close the proximal end opening of the case body;
A sampling tool mounting portion provided so as to project outward from the tip of the case body, and for detachably mounting a sampling tool for sampling the specimen;
A detection unit that is provided at the tip opening of the case body so that at least a part thereof is located in the case body and detects the predetermined component;
A control unit that is electrically connected to the detection unit, includes a measurement unit that measures the predetermined component, and has a function of controlling at least the operation of the detection unit;
A display unit having a function of displaying a measurement result by the measurement unit, the measurement result being visible through the window;
A battery installation unit for installing a battery for supplying power to at least the control unit;
A first sealing means provided between the case body and the detection unit at the tip opening;
In the base end opening, having a second sealing means provided between the case body and the lid,
A storage space that is defined by the case body, the lid, and the detection unit and that stores the control unit, the display unit, and the battery installation unit is formed by the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit. The component measuring apparatus is characterized in that hermeticity is maintained.

  Thereby, for example, cleaning, disinfection, etc. are possible, and a component measuring apparatus that can be used safely and repeatedly can be provided.

  Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of this invention, it is preferable that the said 1st sealing means is comprised in the outer peripheral part of the said detection part, and is comprised by the 1st cyclic | annular member which makes the ring | wheel comprised with the elastic material. .

  Thereby, the airtightness between a case main body and a detection part can be reliably hold | maintained by simple structure.

Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of the present invention, the lid body has a fitting portion that fits into a base end opening of the case body,
It is preferable that the second sealing means is formed of a second annular member that is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the fitting portion and has an annular shape made of an elastic material.

  Thereby, the airtightness between a case main body and a cover body can be reliably maintained with a simple configuration.

  Moreover, in the component measuring device of this invention, it is preferable to have the inner case which accommodates the said control part and supports at least the said detection part and the said display part.

  Thereby, the airtightness in a component measuring apparatus can be improved.

  Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of this invention, it is preferable that the said collection tool mounting part is arrange | positioned at the front-end | tip part of the said detection part.

  Thereby, simplification of the configuration of the component measuring apparatus, reduction of manufacturing costs, and the like can be achieved.

  Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of this invention, it is preferable that the said detection part protrudes from the said case main body through the said front-end | tip opening part.

  Thereby, the improvement of the airtightness in a case can be aimed at.

Further, in the component measuring apparatus of the present invention, a portion protruding from the case main body of the detection unit is provided with a protruding portion that protrudes outward substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the case main body,
It is preferable that an insertion member for improving the degree of adhesion of the first sealing means to the case body and the detection unit is inserted between the protruding portion and the tip of the case body.

  Thereby, the sealing force of the first sealing means can be increased (promoted), and thus the sealing performance between the case main body and the detection unit can be more reliably maintained.

  In the component measuring apparatus of the present invention, an eject member for removing the sampling tool mounted on the sampling tool mounting part from the sampling tool mounting part is provided on the outer side of the distal end portion of the case body. Is preferred.

  Thereby, the operation | movement at the time of removing the collection tool with which the collection tool mounting part was mounted | worn can be performed easily.

  Moreover, in the component measuring device of this invention, it is preferable that the said ejection member is supported so that a movement along the axial direction of the said case main body is possible.

  Thereby, the sampling tool with which the sampling tool mounting part was mounted | worn can be removed by simple operation.

  Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of this invention, it is preferable that the front-end | tip cover member for guiding the movement while accommodating the said ejection member is provided in the front-end | tip part of the said case main body.

  Thereby, the ejection member can be accurately moved.

Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of the present invention, the eject member has a contact portion that contacts the sampling tool,
The tip cover member is preferably formed with a through hole through which the contact portion is inserted.

  Thereby, when performing the removal operation of the collection tool with which the collection tool mounting part was mounted, since the collection tool can be pressed with a contact part, the operation (detachment operation) can be performed more reliably.

  Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of this invention, it is preferable that the tip cover member is formed with a through-hole through which at least the sampling tool mounting portion is inserted.

  Thereby, the front-end | tip cover member can be removed from a case as needed (for example, in the case of replacement | exchange of an ejection member).

Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of the present invention, it has a switch electrically connected to the control unit,
A through hole through which a part of the switch is inserted is formed in the case body, and the through hole is preferably sealed by an elastic member.

  Thereby, a through-hole can be sealed reliably and, therefore, the sealing property in a component measuring apparatus can be maintained reliably. Thereby, for example, cleaning, disinfection and the like can be performed on the component measuring apparatus, and the component measuring apparatus can be used safely and repeatedly.

  Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of this invention, it is preferable that the said elastic member is integrally formed with the said case main body by multicolor molding.

  Thereby, peeling of the elastic member from the case main body can be prevented, and the hermeticity of the elastic member with respect to the case main body can be reliably maintained for a long time.

  Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of this invention, it is preferable that the said battery installation part is provided integrally or connected with the said cover body.

  As a result, the number of components of the component measuring device can be reduced, and the battery can be easily replaced.

  In the component measuring apparatus of the present invention, an inspection through hole for inspecting the sealing state of the component measuring apparatus is formed in the case body, and the inspection through hole is sealed by a sealing member. It is preferable.

  Thereby, it is possible to ensure the airtightness in the case except when necessary (when the airtightness is inspected).

  Moreover, in the component measuring apparatus of this invention, it is preferable that the said through-hole for a test | inspection can connect the test | inspection apparatus for test | inspecting the sealing state of the said component measuring apparatus.

  As a result, the degree of hermeticity (liquid tightness, air tightness) of the component measuring apparatus can be inspected.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides:
A component measuring device for measuring the amount of a predetermined component in a body fluid,
A case including a cylindrical case body having a distal end opening, a proximal end opening, and a window, and a lid provided to close the proximal end opening;
A detection unit that is provided at a front end opening of the case body and detects the predetermined component;
A chip mounting part that protrudes outward from the detection unit and that detachably mounts a component measurement chip for collecting the body fluid; and
A measurement unit that calculates a value of the predetermined component from a signal detected by the detection unit;
A display unit having a function of displaying the calculated predetermined component value, the displayed value being visible through the window;
A battery installation unit for installing a battery as a power source of the component measurement device;
A first sealing means provided between the case body and the detection unit at the tip opening;
In the base end opening, having a second sealing means provided between the case body and the lid,
A storage space that is defined by the case body, the lid, and the detection unit and that stores the measurement unit, the display unit, and the battery installation unit is formed by the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit. The component measuring apparatus is characterized in that hermeticity is maintained.

  Thereby, for example, cleaning, disinfection, etc. are possible, and a component measuring apparatus that can be used safely and repeatedly can be provided.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view ((a) is a front view and (b) is a rear view) of a first embodiment of a component measuring apparatus of the present invention. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the base end portion of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. 1 ((a) is a sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. 1, and (b) is a sectional view taken along line YY in FIG. 1). It is. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the distal end portion of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the tip shown in FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the tip shown in FIG. 4 ((a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 4, and (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 4). FIG. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the photometry unit of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC in FIG. 4 ((a) is an initial state, and (b) is an operating state). FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the tip of the second embodiment of the component measuring apparatus of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the chip. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a state in which the chip shown in FIG. 11 is mounted on the component measuring apparatus. FIG. 13 is a side view showing a state when blood is collected using the chip shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the tip of the third embodiment of the component measuring apparatus of the present invention.

  First, before describing an embodiment of the component measuring apparatus of the present invention, an embodiment of a chip (component measuring chip (collecting tool)) used by being mounted on the component measuring apparatus of the present invention will be described.

  11 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the chip, and FIG. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a state in which the chip shown in FIG. 11 is mounted on the component measuring apparatus. In the following description, the lower side in FIGS. 11 and 12 is referred to as a “base end”, and the upper side is referred to as a “tip”.

  A tip 500 shown in FIG. 11 includes a bottomed cylindrical chip body 510, a narrow tube 520 protruding from the bottom 511 of the chip body 510, and a test paper 530 installed in the chip body 510. ing.

  The chip body 510 constitutes a mounting part that supports the test paper 530 and mounts the chip 500 on a chip mounting part (collecting tool mounting part) 5 provided in the component measuring apparatus 1 described later.

  The chip body 510 includes a bottom portion 511, a body portion 513, and a flange 514 formed on the base end outer periphery of the body portion 513. A pedestal 512 for fixing the test paper 530 is formed inside the bottom 511. The test paper 530 is fixed to the pedestal 512 at the outer peripheral portion (fixed portion 533) by a method such as fusion or bonding with an adhesive.

  The body part 513 constitutes a mounting part for mounting the chip 500 to the chip mounting part 5 of the component measuring apparatus 1. That is, as shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the chip 500 is mounted on the component measuring device 1 by fitting the fitting portion 51 of the chip mounting portion 5 inside the body portion 513 of the chip body 510. Hereinafter, the state shown in FIG. 12 is referred to as a “chip mounting state”.

  The thin tube 520 is for collecting blood (sample), and a sample introduction flow path 520a is formed therein. The sample introduction channel 520a extends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the test paper 530, and a sample inflow port 523 is formed at the front end thereof, and a sample outflow port 527 is formed at the base end thereof.

  The blood is supplied to the test paper 530 through the sample introduction flow path 520a by capillary action. The inner diameter (cross-sectional area) of the sample introduction channel 520a may be constant or changed along the longitudinal direction of the sample introduction channel 520a.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the distal end portion and the proximal end portion of the thin tube 520 constitute a sample inflow side end 521 and a sample outflow side end 525, respectively.

  A groove 522 communicating with the sample introduction channel 520a is formed on the end surface of the sample inflow side end 521. In the illustrated configuration, the groove 522 is a single-letter groove extending in the radial direction of the thin tube 520. Both ends of the groove 522 are open to the outer peripheral surface of the thin tube 520, respectively.

  A specimen outflow side end 525 (test paper 530 side) of the thin tube 520 forms a protruding part that slightly protrudes to the inside of the chip main body (base end side) of the bottom 511, and the end face of the sample outflow side end 525 is formed on the end face of the sample outflow side. Is formed with a groove (second groove) 526 communicating with the sample introduction channel 520a. In the illustrated configuration, the groove 526 is a single-letter groove extending in the radial direction of the thin tube 520. Both ends of the groove 526 are open to the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 11, a gap 540 is provided between a portion of the test paper 530 on the narrow tube 520 side, that is, between the test paper 530 and the inner surface of the bottom 511 of the chip body 510. The gap 540 has a function of assisting blood development on the test paper 530.

  A sample reservoir 550 is provided on the outer periphery of the gap 540. The sample reservoir 550 is formed of an annular recess formed in communication with the gap 540 and deeper than the gap 540. As a result, the blood that has spread radially through the gap 540 stays in the specimen reservoir 550 and is prevented from further moving to the outer periphery (adhered part by adhesion, fusion, etc. of the test paper 530). Even if excessively supplied, excess blood is prevented from leaking out. Therefore, contamination due to blood adhesion of the photometric unit 4 of the component measuring apparatus 1 is prevented.

  A spacer 560 is formed on the inner surface of the bottom portion 511 of the chip body 510 on the outer peripheral side of the pedestal portion 512 as a separating means for ensuring non-contact between the test paper 530 and the chip mounting portion 5 in the chip mounting state. .

  This spacer 560 is composed of a plurality of convex portions (for example, four at 90 ° intervals) arranged along the circumferential direction on the inner surface of the bottom portion 511. As shown in FIG. Abutting on the tip of the mounting portion 5, the tip of the chip mounting portion 5 is prevented from contacting the test paper 530.

  By providing such a spacer 560, the test paper 530 is protected and blood developed on the test paper 530 is prevented from adhering to the chip mounting portion 5 and being contaminated.

  The spacer 560 also has a function of keeping the distance between the test paper 530 and the light emitting element 41 and the light receiving element 42 of the photometric unit 4 constant while abutting the tip of the chip mounting unit 5 in a chip mounted state. Yes. As a result, measurement errors due to fluctuations in the distance and variations in optical characteristics can be reduced, which contributes to improvement in measurement accuracy.

  The chip body 510 and the thin tube 520 as described above are made of a rigid material having a predetermined rigidity. As such a rigid material, for example, highly hydrophilic materials such as acrylic resins or various resin materials subjected to hydrophilic treatment are preferable.

  The test paper 530 is obtained by carrying (impregnating) a reagent (coloring reagent) on a carrier capable of absorbing blood (specimen). This carrier is preferably composed of a porous membrane (sheet-like porous substrate). In this case, the porous membrane preferably has a pore size that can filter out red blood cells in blood.

  Examples of the carrier for the test paper 530 include, in addition to the porous membrane, a sheet-like porous substrate such as a nonwoven fabric, a woven fabric, and a stretched sheet.

  Examples of the constituent material of the carrier such as the porous membrane include polyesters, polyamides, polyolefins, polysulfones, and celluloses, but it is impregnated with an aqueous solution in which a reagent is dissolved. In order to perform rapid development, a hydrophilic material or a hydrophilic material is preferable.

  As a reagent for impregnating the carrier (porous membrane), for blood glucose measurement, for example, glucose oxidase (GOD), peroxidase (POD), for example, 4-aminoantipyrine, N-ethyl N- (2-hydroxy) -3-sulfopropyl) -m-toluidine and other color formers (color-development reagents), and others are appropriately selected according to the measurement components.

  The test paper 530 has a convex portion 531 at the center thereof and an annular convex portion 532 that protrudes in the same direction as the convex portion 531 outside the convex portion 531. The annular convex portion 532 has an annular shape centered on the convex portion 531, and the distal end portion thereof is inserted into the specimen reservoir 550.

  The annular convex portion 532 has a function of regulating the development of blood on the test paper 530. Thereby, excess blood is prevented from flowing out from the annular convex portion 532 to the outer peripheral side, and contamination due to blood adhesion is prevented.

  FIG. 13 is a side view showing a state when blood is collected using the chip 500. As shown in the figure, for blood collection, first, a fingertip (or earlobe) or the like is punctured with a needle or a scalpel, and a small amount (for example, about 1 to 6 μL) of blood B is allowed to flow out from the puncture portion onto the skin. .

  On the other hand, the chip 500 is mounted on the chip mounting portion 5 provided in the component measuring apparatus 1, and the end surface of the sample inflow side end 521 of the thin tube 520 is brought into contact with the skin. The blood B at the fingertip reaches the sample inlet 523 through the groove 522, is sucked by capillary action, flows in the sample introduction flow path 520a in the proximal direction, and reaches the sample outlet 527. At this time, the blood B at the fingertip is effectively inhaled from the side surface opening of the groove 522 (the portion opened to the outer peripheral surface of the thin tube 520), so that it is not scattered excessively on the skin and has little loss.

  The blood that has reached the specimen outlet 527 comes into contact with the convex portion 531 of the test paper 530 and is absorbed, and part of the blood reaches the gap 540 through the groove 526. The blood that has flowed into the gap 540 spreads radially toward the outer periphery while being absorbed and spread by the adjacent test paper 530. In this way, as the blood B is absorbed and spread by the test paper 530, particularly in the vicinity of the convex portion 531, a new suction force is generated in the sample introduction channel 520a, and the blood B is continuously removed from the test paper 530. Can be supplied to.

  When the development of the blood B on the test paper 530 is completed, the target component (for example, glucose) in the blood B reacts with the reagent carried on the test paper 530, and color is displayed according to the amount of the target component. By measuring the color of the colored test paper 530 and measuring the intensity of coloration, the target component amount (blood glucose level) in the blood B is obtained.

  Next, the component measuring apparatus of this invention is demonstrated in detail based on suitable embodiment shown to an accompanying drawing.

<First Embodiment>
First, a first embodiment of the component measuring apparatus of the present invention will be described.

  1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a component measuring apparatus of the present invention ((a) is a front view, (b) is a rear view), and FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the base end portion of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. 1 ((a) is a sectional view taken along line XX in FIG. 1, and (b) is a sectional view taken along line YY in FIG. 1). 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the tip of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the tip shown in FIG. 4, and FIG. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of the tip shown in FIG. (A) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 4, (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line BB in FIG. 4, and FIG. 7 is a longitudinal section showing the configuration of the photometric unit of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along the line CC in FIG. 4 ((a) is an initial state, (b) is an operating state), and FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the component measuring apparatus shown in FIG. In the following description, the right side in FIGS. 1 to 8 (also in FIG. 10) is described as “base end”, and the left side is described as “tip”.

  The component measuring apparatus (blood component measuring apparatus) 1 of the present invention is used with the chip 500 as described above. The component measuring apparatus 1 shown in each figure includes a case 2, a printed circuit board 3 provided in the case 2, a photometric unit (detecting unit) 4 provided on the front end side of the case 2, and a front end of the photometric unit 4 A chip mounting portion 5 fixed to the case 2, a liquid crystal display device (display portion) 6 provided in the case 2, and an eject mechanism 7 provided outside the case 2.

As shown in FIG. 2, the case 2 includes a case main body 21 and a lid body 22.
The case main body 21 is formed of a cylindrical member, and a distal end opening 211 and a proximal end opening 212 are formed. The case body 21 has a substantially rectangular cross section (transverse cross section) in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

  An opening (window) 213a is formed on the side surface (front surface) of the case body 21 at a position corresponding to the liquid crystal display device 6 described later. A light transmissive member (window) 213 having light transmissive properties is fixed to the opening 213a so as to maintain (ensure) the sealing property between the light transmissive member 213 and the case body 21. Yes.

  In the component measuring apparatus 1, the display content (measurement result) displayed on the liquid crystal display device 6 can be visually recognized through the light transmissive member 213.

  Examples of a method for fixing the light transmissive member 213 to the case main body 21 include methods such as fusion (thermal fusion, high frequency fusion, ultrasonic fusion), adhesion with an adhesive, and multicolor molding.

  Further, a through-hole 214a into which a part of a power switch (operation button (press button) 180) to be described later is inserted is formed on the side surface (front surface) of the case body 21 on the tip side from the opening 213a. The through hole 214a is sealed by a flat elastic member 214.

  As a method for fixing the elastic member 214 to the case main body 21, the same method as the method for fixing the light transmissive member 213 to the case main body 21 can be used, but among them, the method using multicolor molding is preferable. According to the multicolor molding method, the elastic member 214 and the cover main body 21 can be integrally formed.

  The elastic member 214 is a portion that repeatedly deforms when the operation button 180 is pressed. Therefore, the elastic member 214 is integrally formed with the case main body 21 by the multicolor molding method, so that the elastic member 214 is removed from the case main body 21. Peeling can be prevented, and the sealing property of the elastic member 214 with respect to the case body 21 can be reliably maintained over a long period of time.

  Further, an inspection device (for example, a pressure gauge, a pressurization / suction nozzle, a leak detection gas injection nozzle, etc.) for inspecting the sealing state of the component measuring device 1 is connected to the side surface (rear surface) of the case body 21. Possible inspection through holes 210 are formed (see FIG. 1B). After assembling the component measuring apparatus 1, the degree of hermeticity (liquid tightness, air tightness) of the component measuring apparatus 1 is inspected by connecting the tip (measurement unit) of the inspection apparatus to the through-hole 210 for inspection. can do.

  The inspection through-hole 210 is sealed by a sealing means when the component measuring apparatus 1 is in use. Thereby, it is possible to ensure the airtightness in the case 2 except when necessary (when inspecting the airtightness).

  As this sealing means, for example, a method of press-fitting an elastic plug (sealing member) into the inspection through-hole 210, a method of screwing a screw with a washer (sealing member) as will be described later, or the like. Can be mentioned. Examples of the constituent material of the plug and the washer include the same constituent materials as those of the O-ring described later.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the case body 21 is detachably provided with a lid 22 so as to close the proximal end opening 212. The lid 22 is formed of a substantially rectangular parallelepiped member, and is inserted (fitted) into the case main body 21 through the proximal end opening 212.

  The lid 22 is formed with a recess 221 that opens to the tip side (see, for example, FIG. 3). The recess 221 constitutes a battery installation part in which the battery (button battery) 100 is installed. The battery installation portion is configured to be provided on the lid body 22, that is, the battery installation portion is formed integrally (or connected) with the lid body 22, thereby reducing the number of components of the component measuring apparatus 1. In addition, the battery 100 can be easily replaced.

  In addition, a plate-like flange 222 that protrudes outward is formed integrally with the lid 22 at the base end of the recess 221. With the lid 22 attached to the case body 21, the flange 222 abuts on the base end of the case body 21. Thereby, the movement of the lid body 22 with respect to the case main body 21 is restricted, that is, the positioning of the lid body 22 with respect to the case main body 21 is performed.

  In addition, the printed circuit board 3 etc. which are mentioned later are accommodated in the case main body 21, the cover body 22 is attached, and the eject mechanism 7 is attached, that is, the states shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4 and 6. “Assembled state”.

  In this assembled state, as shown in FIG. 3, the lid body 22 is substantially housed in the case body 21 and is fixed to the inner case 8 fixed to the case body 21 by the fixing means 23. Yes.

  Specifically, a concave portion 81 is formed at the base end portion of the inner case 8, and a concave portion 224 that opens at the base end is formed in the lid 22, and a communication hole that communicates the concave portion 81 and the concave portion 224. 225 is continuously (crossed) formed on the inner case 8 and the lid body 22 (see FIG. 3A).

  A nut 232 is housed in the recess 81, and a screw 231 is inserted through the recess 224 and the communication hole 225, and the screw 231 is screwed into the nut 232. Thereby, the lid body 22 is fixed to the case main body 21 via the inner case 8.

  Note that a ring-shaped washer (annular elastic plate) 233 is disposed between the head of the screw 231 and the bottom surface (tip surface) of the recess 224. Airtightness is maintained.

  In addition, a plurality (two in this embodiment) of ring-shaped grooves (fitting portions) 223a and 223b are provided on the peripheral surface of the lid body 22 in the axial direction (left and right directions in FIGS. 2 and 3). And are spaced apart at predetermined intervals. On the other hand, a step 215 is formed at the base end of the case body 21 along the inner edge.

  In the assembled state, O-rings 91a and 91b and an O-ring 92 are disposed in the grooves 223a and 223b and the step portion 215, respectively. That is, O-rings 91 a and 91 b and an O-ring 92 are provided between the case main body 21 and the lid body 22 in the vicinity of the base end opening 212. Thereby, the airtightness between the case main body 21 and the lid body 22 is maintained. These O-rings (annular elastic members (second annular members)) 91a, 91b, 92 constitute a second sealing means.

  A printed circuit board 3 is disposed (stored) in the case 2. On the printed circuit board 3, a control unit 10 composed of a microcomputer is mounted, and controls various operations of the component measuring apparatus 1 including the operation of the photometric unit 4 described later.

  The control unit 10 includes a measurement unit (calculation unit) 10 a that measures (calculates) a target blood component (for example, glucose) based on a signal from the photometry unit 4. The measurement unit 10a also performs hematocrit value correction calculation, temperature correction calculation, and the like as necessary.

  A photometric unit (detection unit) 4 is electrically connected to the control unit 10. Specifically, the photometry unit 4 includes a light emitting element (light emitting diode) 41 and a light receiving element (photodiode) 42, which are housed and held in a holder (tubular part) 43. (See FIG. 7). The light emitting element 41 is electrically connected to the control unit 10, and the light receiving element 42 is electrically connected to the control unit 10 via an amplifier and an A / D converter 49 (not shown) (see FIG. 9). .

  The photometry unit 4 has a function of photometric (detecting) color development according to the amount of glucose in the blood. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, in the present embodiment, the photometric unit 4 is located near the front end opening 211 of the case main body 21, and the tip (part) of the holder 43 (photometric unit 4) is the case main unit 21. Projecting outward from the tip opening 211 is provided.

  In addition, as a constituent material of the holder 43, the case main body 21, the lid body 22, and the eject member 71, the tip cover member 72, and the fitting member 90 described later, for example, acrylic resin, polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, Rigid polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, ABS resin, polyester, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyamide, polyimide, polyacetal, etc., or various resin materials such as polymer alloys and polymer blends containing one or more of these, aluminum Alternatively, various metal materials such as aluminum alloy, titanium or titanium alloy, and stainless steel can be given.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the holder 43 allows the light emitted from the light emitting element 41 to pass therethrough and guides it to the test paper 530, and the reflected light reflected by the test paper 530. And a second passage 432 that guides to the light receiving element 42 is formed.

  The first passage 431 and the second passage 432 become one at the tip of the holder 43 (join) and then open (open) at the tip of the holder 43. As a result, an opening 433 through which the first passage 431 and the second passage 432 are opened is formed at the tip of the holder 43.

  The shape of the opening 433 is preferably circular, but may be selected as necessary, for example, a quadrangle such as an ellipse, a square, a rectangle, and a rhombus, a triangle, a hexagon, and an octagon.

  A concave portion 434 is formed at the tip of the holder 43 (the portion facing the test paper 530 when the chip is mounted) so that the opening 433 is positioned substantially at the center.

  In addition, an annular recess 435 that communicates with the recess 434 and is formed deeper than the recess 434 is formed on the outer periphery of the recess 434.

  The O-ring 46 is accommodated in the annular recess 435, and the light transmissive member 45 is accommodated and fixed in the recess 434. Thus, the first passage 431 and the second passage 432 (hereinafter simply referred to as “passage”) of the holder 43 are sealed by the light transmissive member 45 via the O-ring 46.

  In addition, as a method for fixing (fixing) the light transmissive member 45 to the holder 43, for example, a method such as fitting, fusion, screwing, and adhesion using an adhesive may be used.

  The thickness (average) of the light transmissive member 45 is slightly different depending on the constituent material and the like, and is not particularly limited, but is preferably about 0.1 to 10 mm, and is about 0.3 to 3 mm. More preferred. If the thickness of the light transmissive member 45 is too thin, the strength may decrease. On the other hand, if the thickness of the light transmissive member 45 is too thick, the photometry unit 4 is undesirably large.

  In addition, the shape of the light transmissive member 45 is preferably a shape corresponding to the opening 433, and the dimension of the light transmissive member 45 only needs to be large enough to cover the opening 433.

  Examples of the constituent material of the light transmissive member 45 include various glass materials and various resin materials. Further, the light transmissive member 45 is not limited to a flat plate shape, and may be a lens shape, for example.

  Further, one or more desired coating layers may be formed on the surface of the light transmissive member 45. This coat layer can be provided for the purpose of, for example, improving the measurement accuracy and preventing the light transmissive member 45 from being scratched.

  From the viewpoint of improving the measurement accuracy, as the coating layer, for example, an antireflection coating (AR coating) that prevents light emitted from the light emitting element 42 from being reflected on the surface (base end surface) of the light transmissive member 45, or Antireflection coating that prevents the reflected light reflected by the test paper 530 from being reflected by the surface (tip surface) of the light transmissive member 45, and disturbance light (especially infrared light) greatly affects the measurement accuracy. For example, a low-pass filter that selectively transmits light having a wavelength of 720 nm or less, a band-pass filter that selectively transmits light having a wavelength of about 500 to 720 nm (corresponding to the wavelength of light emitted from the light emitting element 41), and the like Is preferably provided.

  Further, from the viewpoint of preventing the light transmissive member 45 from being scratched, as a coating layer, for example, a Si material, an Al material, a polyfunctional acrylic material, a urethane resin material, a melamine resin material, or the like is a main material. It is preferable to provide a reinforcing coat layer (hard coat layer).

  The O-ring 46 is made of an elastic material, and is set so that the diameter (diameter) in the longitudinal section is larger than the depth of the annular recess 435. As a result, the O-ring 46 comes into close contact with both the holder 43 and the light transmissive member 45 in a state where the light transmissive member 45 is installed in the recess 434. Thereby, the sealing property (liquid-tightness or airtightness) of the passage of the holder 43 can be improved.

  The constituent material (elastic material) of the O-ring 46, the O-rings 91a, 91b, and 92, and the O-ring 93 described later is not particularly limited. For example, natural rubber, isoprene rubber, butadiene rubber, and styrene-butadiene are used. Various rubber materials (especially vulcanized) such as rubber, nitrile rubber, chloroprene rubber, butyl rubber, acrylic rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber, hydrin rubber, urethane rubber, silicone rubber, fluoro rubber, styrene, polyolefin, Various thermoplastic elastomers such as polyvinyl chloride, polyurethane, polyester, polyamide, polybutadiene, trans polyisoprene, fluororubber, chlorinated polyethylene, and the like, one or more of these Can be used as a mixture That.

  In addition, the installation position of the O-ring 46 is not limited to the illustrated one, and may be, for example, the outer peripheral portion of the light transmissive member 45.

  The light emitting element 41 is operated by a signal from the control unit 10 and emits pulsed light at a predetermined time interval. For example, the period of the pulsed light is about 0.5 to 3.0 msec, and the emission time of one pulse is about 0.05 to 0.3 msec.

  The wavelength of the pulsed light is preferably about 500 to 720 nm, more preferably about 580 to 650 nm.

  A tip mounting portion 5 to which a tip (component measuring tip) 500 containing the test paper 530 as described above is detachably attached is fixed to the tip of the holder 43 (photometric portion 4). Thereby, it is not necessary to form the chip | tip mounting part 5 integrally with the case main body 21, and simplification of the structure of the component measuring apparatus 1, reduction of manufacturing cost, etc. can be aimed at.

  The chip mounting portion 5 is formed of a cylindrical member, and protrudes to the outside through the tip opening 721 of the tip cover member 72.

  Further, a fitting portion 51 that protrudes outward in a ring shape is provided at a portion that protrudes from the tip cover member 72. In the chip mounting state, the fitting portion 51 is fitted inside the base end portion of the chip body 510. As a result, the chip 500 is fixed to the component measuring apparatus 1.

  Moreover, the opening of the 1st channel | path 431 and the 2nd channel | path 432 is located inside the chip | tip mounting part 5. FIG. Therefore, in the chip mounting state, the front end surface of the holder 43 faces (appears) the test paper 530 provided in the chip 500. In this state, when the light emitting element 41 is turned on, the light emitted from the light emitting element 41 is irradiated onto the test paper 530, and the reflected light reflected by the test paper 530 is received by the light receiving element 42 and subjected to photoelectric conversion. Is done. An analog signal corresponding to the amount of received light is output from the light receiving element 42, amplified as desired, converted into a digital signal by the A / D converter 49, and input to the control unit 10.

  As shown in FIG. 6A, a ring-shaped (annular) stepped portion 437 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the holder 43 in the middle of the longitudinal direction. In the assembled state, the step portion 437 is located in the case main body 21, and an O-ring (annular elastic member (first annular member)) 93 is disposed on the step portion 437. That is, the O-ring 93 is provided between the case main body 21 and the photometry unit 4 in the vicinity of the tip opening 211.

  As a result, the O-ring 93 is in close contact with the case main body 21 and the photometry unit 4, and the airtightness of the case main body 21 is maintained at that portion. This O-ring 93 constitutes a first sealing means.

Further, in the assembled state, a part of the photometry unit 4 (holder 43) protrudes (exposes) out of the case 2 through the tip opening 211. In this portion, a ring-shaped projecting portion 436 projecting outward is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the holder 43 in the middle of the portion projecting from the case body 21 (see, for example, FIG. 5). In other words, the portion of the photometric unit 4 that protrudes from the case 2 is provided with a protruding portion 436 that protrudes outward substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the case body 21. In the assembled state, the protruding portion 436 and the case A fitting member (spacer) 90 is fitted between the front end of the main body 21. The fitting member 90 is formed of a substantially U-shaped flat plate member, and is inserted (inserted) between the protruding portion 436 and the tip of the case body 21 from below in FIG.

  Thereby, the photometry unit 4 moves in the distal direction with respect to the case main body 21. As a result, the O-ring 93 is crushed and the adhesion to the case body 21 and the photometry unit 4 can be improved. With such a configuration, it is possible to improve the sealing performance in the case 2 by the O-ring 93 with a simple configuration. Therefore, it can be said that the fitting member 90 functions as a means for increasing (promoting) the pressure closing force (sealing force) of the O-ring 93.

Further, even when a dimensional error during manufacturing occurs between the case main body 21 and the photometry unit 4 (holder 43), the sealing member 90 is reliably sealed by the O-ring 93 by the action of the fitting member 90. be able to.
The shape of the fitting member 90 may be, for example, a V shape or a C shape.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the printed circuit board 3 as described above is housed in the inner case 8, and the photometric unit 4 is fixed to the tip portion thereof. And it is provided in case 2 in this state.

  The inner case 8 includes a pair of halves, that is, a first member 8a and a second member 8b, and the printed circuit board 3 is sandwiched (fixed) therebetween. In a state where the printed circuit board 3 is sandwiched (arranged) between the first member 8a and the second member 8b, that is, in a state where the inner case 8 is assembled, the proximal end of the inner case 8 is An opening 80 is formed (see FIG. 3). Note that the above-described recess 81 is formed in the outer peripheral portion of the proximal end opening 80.

  In the assembled state, the distal end side of the lid body 22 to which the battery 100 is attached is inserted into the inner case 8 through the proximal end opening 80. On the other hand, a base end portion of the printed circuit board 3 is provided with a pair of terminals (electrical connection portions) 30a and 30b, which are connected to the battery 100 in the assembled state (see FIG. 3). As a result, power is supplied to the control unit 10.

  As shown in FIG. 3B, protrusions 82a and 82b projecting outward are provided at the base ends of the first member 8a and the second member 8b. On the other hand, concave portions 215 a and 215 b are formed on the inner surface of the base end portion of the case main body 21. In the assembled state, the protrusions 81a and 81b are inserted into the recesses 215a and 215b and fitted. Thereby, the inner case 8 is fixed to the case main body 21.

  In addition, inclined surfaces 821a and 821b are formed at the tips of the protrusions 82a and 82b, respectively. Thereby, the operation of inserting the inner case 8 into the case body 21, that is, the assembly operation of the component measuring apparatus 1 can be easily performed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the second member 8b has an opening 81a. The liquid crystal display device 6 is disposed in the opening 81a, and the liquid crystal display device 6 is fixed to the second member 8b by a frame member 82.

  The predetermined places in the inner case 8 (component measuring apparatus 1) include a control oscillation unit 11, a clock oscillation unit 12, a data storage unit 13, a buzzer output unit 14, an external output unit 15, a temperature measurement unit 16, a power source A voltage detector 17 and a switch circuit 18 are provided (see FIG. 9).

  The control oscillating unit 11 constitutes a timer, oscillates a clock pulse at a constant time interval, and supplies a reference signal for operation of the microcomputer (microprocessing unit: MPU) of the control unit 10.

  The clock oscillator 12 constitutes a clock that specifies an absolute time (date and time). The clock oscillator 12 oscillates clock pulses at regular time intervals and supplies a reference signal for operation of a clock control circuit built in the controller 10.

  The data storage unit 13 includes a first memory (RAM), a second memory (ROM), and a third memory (nonvolatile RAM). The photometric value (photometric data) input from the photometric unit 4 is stored in the first memory according to a predetermined format.

  In the second memory, the relationship (calibration curve) between the absorbance obtained from the photometric value and the target blood component amount is preliminarily tabulated and stored.

  In the third memory, calibration values unique to each device are stored in advance. Specific calibration values referred to here include, for example, a prescribed value for the amount of reflected light, a correction coefficient for calculating absorbance, and the like.

  The buzzer output unit 14 operates the buzzer based on a signal from the control unit 10 and emits a sound.

  The external output unit 15 is for outputting the obtained data such as the desired blood component amount to an external device such as a personal computer. In this case, the external output unit 15 incorporates a communication driver such as RS232C. When performing infrared communication, the external output unit 15 incorporates an infrared light emitting element and its drive circuit.

  The temperature measuring unit 16 includes a temperature sensor (thermistor) that can measure the environmental temperature. The temperature measurement unit 16 measures temperature at any time, and the temperature information is stored in the first memory of the data storage unit 13. Further, the temperature information read from the first memory is input to the control unit 10 and used for the temperature correction calculation of the target blood component amount.

  The power supply voltage detection unit 17 detects the voltage of the battery 100 and outputs the detected voltage value (detection value) to the control unit 10. Thereby, the remaining amount of the battery 100 can be checked.

  The switch circuit 18 detects inputs of various switches as described below and inputs the signals to the control unit 10. Examples of the switch include a power switch, a stored data read switch, a time setting / change switch, a reset switch, a buzzer operation / non-operation selection switch, and a 50 Hz / 60 Hz commercial power frequency selection switch.

  The power switch can turn on / off the component measuring device 1 by pressing the operation button 180. Note that the operation button 180 may be omitted, and the liquid crystal display device 6 may be configured as a touch panel type so that the component measuring device 1 is turned on / off by an operation of touching the display screen.

  When the liquid crystal display device 6 is a touch panel type, the light transmissive member 213 is omitted, and an O-ring (ring-shaped) is formed between the liquid crystal display device 6 and the inside of the case body 21 and in the vicinity of the opening 213a. The elastic member) is arranged, and thereby, the hermeticity in the case 2 is secured. Specifically, the frame member 82 described above may be made of an elastic material.

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 6, the recessed part 20 is formed in the front-end | tip part outer surface of case 2 (case main body 21). The recess 20 is provided with an eject mechanism 7 for removing the chip 500 mounted on the chip mounting unit 5 from the chip mounting unit 5.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the ejection mechanism 7 includes an ejection member 71, a tip cover member 72, and a return spring 73.

  The eject member 71 is provided in the recess 20 and is provided so as to be movable along the axial direction of the case 2. The eject member 71 is constituted by a member having a U-shape in a longitudinal section.

  Further, a rod-like pin (contact portion) 712 is formed on the front surface of the eject member 71 so as to protrude toward the tip. In the present embodiment, three pins 712 are provided. When the chip 500 mounted on the chip mounting portion 5 is removed, the tip of each pin 712 comes into contact with the base end (flange 514) of the chip 500 (see FIG. 8B).

  The pins 712 are formed so as to be arranged at substantially equal angular intervals along the circumferential direction around the axis of the case 2 (center axis O) in the assembled state. Thereby, when performing the removal operation of the chip 500, the chip 500 can be pressed uniformly in the circumferential direction, so that the operation (removal operation) can be performed more reliably.

  Further, a finger hook portion 711 protruding downward is formed on the lower surface of the eject member 71. A finger is placed on the finger rest portion 711 to move the eject member 71, that is, to remove the tip 500 from the tip mounting portion 5.

  A pair of recesses 713 and 713 are formed at the lower end of the tip of the eject member 71. Further, on the base end face of each recess 713, a rod-like protrusion 713a is formed so as to protrude in the distal direction. This protrusion 713 a is inserted on the proximal end side of the return spring 73.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 8, an engaging portion 714 is formed at the proximal end portion of the eject member 71 so as to protrude upward. On the other hand, an engaging portion 216 that protrudes downward is formed at the lower portion of the case body 21. When the eject member 71 is moved to the distal end side, the engaging portion 714 engages with the engaging portion 216. Thereby, the movement of the eject member 71 in the distal direction is restricted.

  A tip cover member 72 that houses such an eject member 71 is fixed to the tip of the case 2 (case body 21). The tip cover member 72 also functions to guide the movement of the eject member 71. For this reason, the ejection member 71 can be accurately moved.

  A tip opening 721 is formed at the tip of the tip cover member 72. As shown in FIG. 5, in the assembled state, the tip opening 721 has a semicircular shape that communicates with the central opening 721a through which the chip mounting portion 5 is inserted, and through which the pins 712 of the eject member 71 are inserted. The three openings (through holes) 721b and a semicircular opening 721c through which the upper end of the holder 43 of the photometry unit 4 is inserted.

  A tip rib 725 is formed on the tip surface of the case body 21 so as to protrude toward the tip along the outer peripheral edge of the central opening 721a and avoid the openings 721b and 721c. With the chip mounted, the base end (flange 514) of the chip 500 abuts on the tip rib 725, and the chip 500 is positioned with respect to the component measuring apparatus 1 (see, for example, FIG. 8A).

  As shown in FIG. 6B, through holes 722 are formed on both side surfaces of the base end portion of the tip cover member 72, respectively, and both side surfaces of the tip end portion of the case body 21 protrude outward. A joint portion 217 is formed. 6A, a receiving portion 723 is formed on the upper inner surface of the tip cover member 72, and a protruding portion 218 that protrudes toward the tip side is formed on the upper end of the case body 21. As shown in FIG. Has been.

  With the tip cover member 72 attached to the case 2 (case body 21), the engaging portion 217 is inserted and fitted into the through hole 722, and the protruding portion 218 is inserted into the receiving portion 723. Thereby, the tip cover member 72 is fixed to the case 2. That is, the eject mechanism 7 is fixed to the case 2. Further, with such a configuration, the tip cover member 72 can be removed from the case 2 as necessary (for example, when the eject mechanism 7 is replaced).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 8, a stepped portion 724 is formed on the lower inner surface of the tip cover member 72. This stepped portion 724 constitutes a spring seat with which the tip of the return spring 73 abuts. As shown in FIG. 8, in the assembled state of the ejection mechanism 7, the return spring 73 has a distal end abutted on the stepped portion 724 and a proximal end abutted on the proximal end surface of the recess 713 of the eject member 71.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, in such an ejection mechanism 7, almost the entire ejection member 71 is accommodated in the tip cover member 72 in a state where the chip 500 is mounted on the component measuring apparatus 1. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8B, each pin 712 protrudes from the tip cover member 72 when the eject member 71 is moved in the tip direction. Then, the tip of each pin 712 comes into contact with the base end (flange 514) of the chip 500 and presses the chip 500 toward the tip. As a result, the chip 500 moves in the distal direction and is removed (detached) from the chip mounting portion 5.

  8B, the engaging portion 714 of the eject member 71 is engaged with the engaging portion 216 of the case body 21, and the movement of the eject member 71 in the distal direction is restricted. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the ejection mechanism 7 from unintentionally leaving the case 2.

  8B, the return spring 73 is in a compressed state, and urges the eject member 71 toward the proximal end. For this reason, when the finger is released from the finger hooking portion 711, the eject member 71 is pushed and moved in the proximal direction by the action of the return spring 73, and the state (initial state) shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, in such a component measuring apparatus 1, a space (storage space) 24 is defined by the case main body 21, the lid body 22, and the photometry unit 4. The space 24 accommodates the control unit 10, the liquid crystal display device 6, and the battery installation unit (recess 221). As described above, the O-ring 93 provided between the case body 21 and the photometry unit 4 and the O-rings 91a, 91b and 92 provided between the case body 21 and the lid body 22 The airtightness (liquid tightness or airtightness) of the space 24 (in the case 2) is reliably maintained.

  Therefore, when blood (specimen) adheres to the component measuring apparatus 1 during the measurement of the blood sugar level (component), the liquid tightness in the case 2 is ensured, so that the next blood sugar level (glucose amount) is measured. At this time, the component measuring apparatus 1 can be cleaned with a cleaning liquid, disinfected with a disinfecting liquid, or the like. For example, when airtightness in the case 2 is ensured, in addition to the cleaning and disinfection, sterilization (sterilization) treatment with ethylene oxide gas (EOG) or the like can be performed.

  For this reason, even when microorganisms harmful to the human body, such as viruses such as HBV, HCV, and HIV, and pathogens exist in the blood, it is possible to suitably prevent the operator from being infected by such microorganisms. .

  In general, it is difficult to ensure the sealing in a portion where a moving member such as a lever or a slider exists. However, since the ejection mechanism 7 is disposed outside the sealed space (space 24), the sealing performance in the case 2 is not limited. Is easy to hold.

Second Embodiment
Next, a second embodiment of the component measuring apparatus of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the tip of the second embodiment of the component measuring apparatus of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, although the component measuring apparatus of 2nd Embodiment is demonstrated, it demonstrates centering around difference with the component measuring apparatus of the said 1st Embodiment, and the description is abbreviate | omitted about the same matter.

  In the second embodiment, the configuration of the ejection mechanism 7 is different, and the rest is the same as in the first embodiment.

  That is, the ejection mechanism 7 shown in FIG. 10 differs from the first embodiment in that the tip cover member 72 and the return spring 73 are omitted.

The eject member 71 shown in FIG. 10 is formed of a bottomed cylindrical member, and a through hole 715 is formed at the substantially central portion thereof.
In the present embodiment, the photometry unit 4 is provided in the case 2.

  The chip mounting portion 5 protrudes from the case 2 via the tip opening 211 and further protrudes from the tip of the eject member 71 via the through hole 715.

  A protrusion 716 that protrudes inward is formed at the base end of the eject member 71, and a recess 219 is formed on the side surface of the tip of the case body 21 corresponding to the protrusion 716. With the eject member 71 attached to the case 2, the protrusion 716 is inserted into the recess 219. Thereby, the eject member 71 is movable along the axial direction of the case 2 and the movement is restricted.

  With such a configuration, when the chip 500 is removed from the chip mounting portion 5, the eject member 71 is moved in the distal direction so that the edge forming the through-hole 715 becomes the base end (flange 514) of the chip 500. Abut.

  Also by such 2nd Embodiment, the effect | action and effect similar to the said 1st Embodiment are acquired.

  According to the configuration of the second embodiment, the number of parts of the eject mechanism 7 can be reduced.

  Further, the ejection mechanism 7 may further include a cover (cap) that is detachably attached to the distal end portion of the ejection member 71.

<Third Embodiment>
Next, a third embodiment of the component measuring apparatus of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 14 is a longitudinal sectional view showing the configuration of the tip of the third embodiment of the component measuring apparatus of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, although the component measuring apparatus of 3rd Embodiment is demonstrated, it demonstrates centering around difference with the component measuring apparatus of the said 1st Embodiment, and abbreviate | omits the description about the same matter.

  In the third embodiment, the component measuring device and the chip are of the electrode type, and other than that is the same as in the first embodiment.

  A chip 600 illustrated in FIG. 14 includes a chip body 610 having a bottomed cylindrical shape, and a pair of electrode portions (a measurement electrode 611 and a counter electrode 612) provided on the bottom of the chip body 610.

  A sample introduction channel 520 a through which blood as a sample is introduced toward the measurement electrode 611 and the counter electrode 612 is formed at the bottom 610 a of the chip body 610. The sample introduction channel 520a is constituted by a thin tube, and a reaction reagent (for example, glucose oxidase and potassium ferricyanide) that reacts with blood is applied to the inner peripheral surface thereof. The applied reagent is in contact with the measurement electrode 611 and the counter electrode 612, respectively.

  A detection unit 620 is provided at the tip of the holder 43. The detection unit 620 includes electrode terminals 613 and 614 that are electrically connected to the measurement electrode 611 and the counter electrode 612 of the chip 600, respectively, and the electrode terminals 613 and 614 to the tip of the holder 43, respectively. Terminal support portions 615 and 616 to be supported are provided.

  In the component measuring apparatus 1 having such a configuration, the reagent reacts with glucose in the blood introduced into the sample introduction flow path 520a in a chip loading state to generate an electric current between the measurement electrode 611 and the counter electrode 612. The amount of glucose in the blood can be detected according to this current.

  Although the component measuring apparatus of the present invention has been described based on the illustrated embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these.

  In the above-described embodiment, blood has been described as the sample. However, the sample is not limited to this, and other sewage such as urine, lymph, spinal fluid, saliva, industrial wastewater, domestic wastewater, or the like, or dilution thereof. It may be a liquid or a concentrated liquid.

  Further, in the above embodiment, glucose (blood glucose level) has been described as the measurement target component (predetermined component) in the specimen (blood), but not limited thereto, for example, cholesterol, uric acid, creatinine, lactic acid, Hemoglobin (occult blood), various alcohols, various sugars, various proteins, various vitamins, various inorganic ions such as sodium, and environmental hormones such as PCB and dioxin may be used.

  In the above embodiment, the amount of the predetermined component is measured. However, in the present invention, the property of the predetermined component may be measured, and both the amount and the property of the predetermined component are measured. You may do.

  In the above embodiment, the case where an O-ring (sealing member made of an elastic material) is used as each sealing means has been described as a representative. However, the sealing means has sealing properties such as various resin materials. The material (for example, adhesive) which has can also be used.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, the component measuring device is described which is used with a cylindrical tip (tip) provided with a test paper. However, the component measuring device of the present invention is a stick Or a sheet-like chip may be used.

  The component measuring apparatus of the present invention is an apparatus for measuring the amount and / or property of a predetermined component in a specimen, and includes a cylindrical case body having a distal end opening, a proximal end opening, and a window, and the case A case provided with a lid provided so as to close the proximal end opening of the main body, and a sampling tool provided so as to protrude outward from the distal end of the case main body and detachably mounts a sampling tool for collecting the specimen At least a part of the mounting portion and the front end opening of the case main body is disposed in the case main body, and the detection portion that detects the predetermined component is electrically connected to the detection portion. A control unit that measures the predetermined component, has a control unit that has at least a function of controlling the operation of the detection unit, and a function that displays a measurement result of the measurement unit, and displays the measurement result on the window unit. Visible display via A battery installation unit for installing a battery for supplying power to at least the control unit, a first sealing means provided between the case body and the detection unit at the distal end opening, and the base end A second sealing means provided between the case main body and the lid body in the opening, and is defined by the case main body, the lid body, and the detection unit; and the control unit, The storage space for storing the display unit and the battery installation unit is kept sealed by the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit. Therefore, the component measuring apparatus can be used safely and repeatedly, for example, after cleaning, disinfection and the like. Therefore, the component measuring apparatus of the present invention has industrial applicability.

Claims (14)

A component measuring device for measuring the amount and / or property of a predetermined component in a specimen,
A case comprising a cylindrical case body having a tip opening and a window;
The tip opening of the case body is provided so that at least a part thereof is located in the case body, and the remaining part protrudes from the case body through the tip opening. A detection unit for detecting the predetermined component;
A sampling tool mounting portion that is provided at the distal end portion of the detection section so as to protrude outward from the detection section, and that detachably mounts a sampling tool for sampling the specimen;
A control unit that is electrically connected to the detection unit, includes a measurement unit that measures the predetermined component, and has a function of controlling at least the operation of the detection unit;
A display unit having a function of displaying a measurement result by the measurement unit, the measurement result being visible through the window;
A battery installation unit for installing a battery for supplying power to at least the control unit;
A first sealing means provided for sealing the case and the detection unit at the tip opening;
An eject member that is provided outside the detection unit and is supported so as to be movable along the axial direction of the case body, and for removing the sampling tool mounted on the sampling tool mounting unit from the sampling tool mounting unit It has a door,
In the case body, inspection holes are formed for inspecting the sealed state of the component measuring device, component measuring the inspection through hole characterized that you have been sealed by a sealing member apparatus.   The component measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the case includes an inner case that houses the control unit and supports at least the detection unit and the display unit.   The component measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a tip cover member for guiding movement of the eject member is provided at a tip portion of the case body. The eject member has a contact portion that contacts the sampling tool,
The component measuring apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the tip cover member is formed with a through hole through which the contact portion is inserted.   The component measuring device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the tip cover member is formed with a through-hole through which at least the collection tool mounting portion is inserted. A switch electrically connected to the control unit;
The component measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the case body is formed with a through hole through which a part of the switch is inserted, and the through hole is sealed by an elastic member.   The component measuring apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the elastic member is formed integrally with the case main body by multicolor molding.   The component measurement according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first sealing means includes a first annular member that is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the detection unit and has an annular shape made of an elastic material. apparatus. The portion of the detection unit that protrudes from the case body is provided with a protruding portion that protrudes outward substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the case body.
The insertion member for improving the contact | adherence degree with respect to the said case main body and the said detection part of the said 1st sealing means is inserted between the said protrusion part and the front-end | tip of the said case main body. The component measuring apparatus in any one. A proximal end opening provided in the case body;
A lid provided to close the proximal end opening;
In the base end opening, having a second sealing means provided between the case body and the lid,
A storage space that is defined by the case body, the lid, and the detection unit and that stores the control unit, the display unit, and the battery installation unit is formed by the first sealing unit and the second sealing unit. The component measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sealing property is maintained. The lid body has a fitting portion that fits into a base end opening of the case body,
The component measuring apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the second sealing means is configured by a second annular member that is provided on an outer peripheral portion of the fitting portion and has an annular shape made of an elastic material.   The component measurement apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the battery installation unit is provided integrally or connected to the lid. The component measurement apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the inspection through-hole is connectable to an inspection apparatus for inspecting a sealed state of the component measurement apparatus. A component measuring device for measuring the amount of a predetermined component in a body fluid,
A case comprising a cylindrical case body having a tip opening and a window;
The tip opening of the case body is provided so that at least a part thereof is located in the case body, and the remaining part protrudes from the case body through the tip opening. A detection unit for detecting the predetermined component;
A tip mounting portion that is provided at the distal end portion of the detection portion so as to protrude outward from the detection portion, and that detachably mounts a component measurement chip for collecting the body fluid;
A measurement unit that calculates a value of the predetermined component from a signal detected by the detection unit;
A display unit having a function of displaying the calculated predetermined component value, the displayed value being visible through the window;
A battery installation unit for installing a battery as a power source of the component measurement device;
A first sealing means provided between the case body and the detection unit at the tip opening;
Is provided outside of the detection unit, movably supported will be along the axial direction of the case body, and the ejection member for removing the component measuring tip attached to the tip mounting portion from the tip mounting portion I have a,
In the case body, inspection holes are formed for inspecting the sealed state of the component measuring device, component measuring the inspection through hole characterized that you have been sealed by a sealing member apparatus.

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